Plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot. It connects the heel bone to the toes and creates the arch of the foot. When this tissue becomes swollen or inflamed, it is called plantar fasciitis.

Causes of Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is overstretched or overused. This can be painful and make walking more difficult.

Apply ice to the painful area. Do this at least twice a day for 10 - 15 minutes, more often in the first couple of days.

Try wearing a heel cup, felt pads in the heel area, or shoe inserts.

Use night splints to stretch the injured fascia and allow it to heal.

If these treatments do not work, your health care provider may recommend:

Wearing a boot cast, which looks like a ski boot, for 3 - 6 weeks. It can be removed for bathing.

Custom-made shoe inserts (orthotics)

Steroid shots or injections into the heel

Sometimes, foot surgery is needed.

Prognosis (Outlook)

Nonsurgical treatments almost always improve the pain. Treatment can last from several months to 2 years before symptoms get better. Most patients feel better in 9 months. Some people need surgery to relieve the pain.

When to Contact a Health Professional

Contact your health care provider if you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

Prevention of Plantar fasciitis

Making sure your ankle, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles are flexible can help prevent plantar fasciitis. Stretch your plantar fascia in the morning before you get out of bed. Doing activities in moderation can also help.